[Candid Photos] Dr. Shaquille O’Neal Walks Across Stage, Gets Doctorate Degree

This week, we learned that former NBA baller, Shaquille O’Neal would be getting his doctorate degree from Florida’s Barry University. And on Saturday, he did just that. He explained:

“This is for my mother, who always stressed the importance of education….I am proud to have achieved a doctoral degree and wish to thank my professors and Barry University for helping make this dream a reality. I’m smart enough to know that, even at my tender age, my pursuit of education is never finished.”

The university confirmed in a statement:

“For the past four-and-half years, O’Neal pursued his doctoral degree in education while juggling the roles of athlete, student and entrepreneur….He completed the requirements of the doctoral program while adhering to the grueling NBA schedule prior to his retirement last year as well as fulfilling commitments in broadcasting and business.”

Sweet!

[Photos: @Manny_Navarro, CNN]